By Ashlee Dodd
From the start of the school year, I believe that the transition back to a full academic schedule was daunting for me, as I wondered if I would be able to keep up with the pace again. There was a mix of excitement for the unknown and a genuine sense of anxiety about whether I would find my place easily or drown in the workload.
Looking back now, I can see how much that “small doubt” of mine has strengthened. One area where I have seen significant improvement is my time management. I used to rely entirely on my memory, but I’ve since learned to live by my planner, which has helped me navigate deadlines with far less stress. My biggest challenge was definitely my chemistry class; the sheer volume of information between assignments felt impossible. However, I overcame it by forming a study group, which taught me that asking for help isn’t a weakness, it’s a strategy. My proudest moment came during and after the ACT in-person tests. Writing on scratch paper and going through each question, I was confidently proud of myself that I had worked hard to understand each subject and been able to complete it.
Now, I’m looking ahead to becoming a senior next year, graduating, and the transition to college. My main goal for next year is to maintain this academic momentum while taking on new responsibilities, like managing my own schedule and finding a community.
To my future self: remember that growth is rarely a straight line. There will be days that feel like that first nervous morning again, but you have already proven you can handle the waves. To those following behind me, don’t be afraid of the challenges; they are simply the gym where your character gets stronger. Stay hopeful and keep moving forward.
